Did you know that the classic car dealer market in the U.S. is worth $2.1 billion?
Americans love their classic cars — vintage vehicles are usually at least 25 years old. But if you’re going to sink money into buying one or restoring one, you’ll also want to know how to protect your investment.
What is your pleasure when it comes to classic cars? The most popular classic cars in America include — but aren’t limited to — models of the Chevrolet Corvette, the Ford Mustang, and the Porsche 911.
Do you want to learn how to safeguard your classic car so that it continues to give you year after year of pleasurable driving experiences?
Here’s a look at ways to protect your vehicle — including some classic car storage tips.
Store It in a Garage
Leaving your classic car outdoors isn’t the right strategy. On the one hand, exposing your vehicle to the elements will lead to weather damage over time. No amount of wax or polish will stave off weather-related issues.
Storing your classic car out on the driveway will also make it a more inviting target for thieves. There’s a thriving black market for classic cars. You’ll want to take appropriate measures to prevent yours from being stolen.
Chances are there’s already too much in your garage. You might have one or more cars as well as other things. So, another viable option is to have a large metal outbuilding set up on your property for your classic car and other toys.
A metal car garage is without a doubt the best way to protect your investment.
Don’t Drive It During the Winter
You probably won’t ever think about diving your vintage vehicle during the winter months. But just in case you get the inkling to do so — don’t do it. Road salt can do a number on your vehicle. Don’t tempt Mother Nature.
Classic cars usually lack the sort of protective coatings that are common on modern vehicles. This can increase the risk of rust damage
If you’d prefer to keep it in showroom condition and ensure longevity, then store your car in a secure garage during the winter season. You’ll be able to protect your car. After all, it’ll only be a few months before it’s spring again.
Stay Off the Wet Roads
Another way to protect your classic car is to stay off wet roads. The reason? When moisture gets onto the metal parts of your vehicle, it can lead to corrosion and rust issues down the road.
Use your daily driver on wet days, and use your classic car on dry days.
Stay On the Lookout for Rust
Rust is never a good thing on a car – left unchecked, it’ll spread.
That’s not something anyone wants to have happen to their car. But the issue can be more serious with a classic car. So, if you spot rust, take action immediately.
Routine maintenance will help to prevent a small problem from becoming a big problem. You can ask your mechanic to give your classic car a once-over during oil changes. If there are signs of rust, the mechanic will alert you.
Tackling the problem ASAP will help you to prevent rust from destroying your classic car.
Clean, Wax, and Polish
Another way to protect your classic car is to regularly clean, wax, and polish it. Doing these things will ensure your vehicle looks its best at all times. But it will also ensure that your classic car holds its values or even appreciates in value.
Store It Right
When it comes to classic cars, there’s a bucket list of things to do before storing them for the winter. Keep in mind the following tips:
Oil Change: Change the oil in your classic car — and don’t forget to change the filter a well.
Silicone Spray: Apply silicone spray to the weather stripping around the windows, trunk, and doors. This will prevent bonding while your car is stored.
Add Fuel Stabilizer: Add fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank. Ensure you follow the directions so that you add the correct amount.
Keep Critters Out: Ensure you close up any openings so that critters don’t make a home in your classic car. Don’t forget to stuff the tailpipes.
Use Jack Stands: You’ll also want to use jack stands to elevate your classic car. If you don’t do this, you’ll end up with problems with the suspension and the brakes. The last thing you’ll want is to have to spend a tonne to fix such issues.
Keep the Battery Charged: Use a battery maintainer to keep your battery charged. If you don’t do this, your car won’t start in the spring. You’ll also shorten the longevity of your battery if you allow it to fully discharge due to lack of use.
Classic Car Storage Will Protect Your Vehicle
Collector cars deserve the right classic car storage solutions. In addition to faithfully performing routine maintenance, you’ll want to store your car properly.
Leaving it out on your driveway or in some outdoor storage facility is not the answer. You don’t want to shorten the lifespan of your vehicle, after all.
If you need a large metal outbuilding or a multicar garage, we have the right solution for your property. Our customers want the best options for storing their cars, recreational toys, and other things.
When you’re ready to explore your options, contact us for a fast and free estimate.